UNICEF Moldova Call: Strengthening Inclusive Education for Refugee and Host Community Children

Deadline: 05-Feb-2026

UNICEF Moldova has launched a Call for Expression of Interest to partner with Civil Society Organizations to improve access to quality inclusive education for refugee children and children from host communities. The initiative focuses on establishing preschool-based Resource Centers, rehabilitating inclusive playgrounds, capacity-building for early childhood staff, and strengthening local governance to implement inclusive early childhood policies across six targeted districts.

Overview of the Initiative

The initiative aims to enhance access to quality inclusive early childhood education through integrated interventions targeting refugee and host community children. Key focus areas include early childhood development, child health, family-centered approaches, and social cohesion. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are invited to partner with UNICEF Moldova to support Output 1.3, ensuring inclusive early learning opportunities in six newly targeted districts.

Key Objectives

• Ensure access to quality inclusive education for preschool-age children

• Establish and operationalize Resource Centers within preschools

• Equip Resource Centers with age-appropriate furniture, educational toys, learning materials, and reading corners

• Rehabilitate inclusive playgrounds to create safe, accessible, and interactive outdoor spaces

• Develop capacity of early childhood education staff on inclusive, innovative, and playful pedagogies

• Promote early detection and intervention for children with developmental delays or disabilities

• Strengthen collaboration between families, caregivers, and preschools

• Foster social cohesion between refugee children and children from host communities

• Build capacity of Local Public Authorities to design, coordinate, and implement inclusive early childhood policies

• Facilitate transdisciplinary collaboration across education, health, and social protection sectors

Scope of Work for Partner Organizations

Partner CSOs will be expected to:

• Support establishment and operationalization of preschool-based Resource Centers

• Contribute to rehabilitation and accessibility of inclusive playgrounds

• Provide training and coaching to early childhood education staff in Resource Centers

• Implement programs on playful learning, social-emotional learning, interactive reading, and inclusive teaching

• Engage families and caregivers through positive parenting programs and social cohesion activities

• Participate in transdisciplinary teams for early detection and family-centered intervention

• Support Local Public Authorities in policy development and inclusive early childhood planning

Target Beneficiaries

• Refugee children enrolled or eligible for preschool education

• Children from host communities in the same preschools

• Early childhood education staff working in Resource Centers

• Families and caregivers of preschool children

• Local Public Authorities and frontline workers in education, health, and social protection

Expected Outcomes

• Fully operational Resource Centers equipped to support inclusive learning

• Safe, rehabilitated playgrounds promoting play and social interaction

• Enhanced staff capacity in inclusive and innovative pedagogical practices

• Strengthened family engagement and positive parenting practices

• Integrated transdisciplinary early childhood interventions

• Improved coordination and implementation of inclusive early childhood policies at local levels

• Increased social cohesion between refugee and host community children

Why This Initiative Matters

• Addresses the urgent need for inclusive early childhood education for vulnerable populations

• Strengthens local early learning systems and builds sustainable capacity

• Promotes integration of refugee children and supports social cohesion

• Aligns with national policies and international frameworks for early childhood development

• Supports transdisciplinary, family-centered, and community-based approaches for sustainable impact

How to Apply / Express Interest

1. Review the call documentation and eligibility criteria provided by UNICEF Moldova

2. Prepare an Expression of Interest highlighting experience in early childhood education, inclusive learning, and community engagement

3. Submit proposals that include a description of organizational capacity, past experience, and proposed interventions aligned with Output 1.3

4. Ensure alignment with UNICEF’s standards, national policies, and transdisciplinary approaches

5. Collaborate with relevant Local Public Authorities and other stakeholders for project implementation

Common Tips for Applicants

• Demonstrate prior experience in inclusive early childhood education and community engagement

• Include examples of family-centered and transdisciplinary interventions

• Provide evidence of collaboration with local preschools, families, and authorities

• Highlight strategies for social cohesion and integration of refugee children

• Detail monitoring, reporting, and sustainability plans for the proposed activities

FAQ

1. Who can apply? Civil Society Organizations working in early childhood education, child development, or social inclusion.
2. How many districts are targeted? Six newly targeted districts in Moldova.
3. What is the focus of the Resource Centers? Inclusive learning, equipped with age-appropriate materials and play areas.
4. Are families and caregivers involved? Yes, through positive parenting programs and engagement in early childhood interventions.
5. What types of training are provided for staff? Playful learning, social-emotional learning, interactive reading, and inclusive teaching methods.
6. Is collaboration with Local Public Authorities required? Yes, to strengthen policy design and implementation of inclusive early childhood programs.
7. What is the expected outcome for children? Improved access to quality inclusive education, early development support, and social cohesion with host communities.

Conclusion

The UNICEF Moldova Call for Expression of Interest provides Civil Society Organizations an opportunity to strengthen inclusive early childhood education for refugee and host community children. By establishing Resource Centers, rehabilitating playgrounds, training staff, and engaging families, the initiative builds sustainable local capacity, fosters social cohesion, and ensures alignment with national and international frameworks for early childhood development.

For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.